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What Was Marilyn Monroe’s Real Name?
From Norma Jeane to a Hollywood legend, learn what was Marilyn Monroe’s real name and the journey she undertook.
Sam
September 26, 2025
When people talk about the Mount Rushmore of guitarists, Eric Clapton almost always makes the cut. From his days with the Yardbirds to Cream to a solo career that’s spanned decades, he’s been called “God” more times than probably any other guitarist alive.
But is he really the greatest of all time? Let’s dive in.
Clapton first made his mark in the mid-’60s with The Yardbirds, injecting fiery blues licks into British rock. He left before they hit commercial success because he thought they were getting too pop — classic Clapton move.
Then came John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers. His tone and feel on that one album (the “Beano” record) earned him graffiti across London walls: “Clapton is God.”
Not a bad way to start your legend.
With Cream, Clapton teamed up with Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce. Songs like Sunshine of Your Love and White Room didn’t just show off his technical skills — they pushed the boundaries of what rock guitar could do.
This was Clapton in his wildest form — wah pedals screaming, extended jams, and solos that felt like they were being beamed in from another planet.
Unlike Hendrix or Page, Clapton’s career stretched on for decades. He shifted from fiery blues rock to more restrained, polished songwriting. Tracks like Layla (with Derek and the Dominos), Wonderful Tonight, and his acoustic Tears in Heaven proved he wasn’t just a shredder — he was a songwriter with soul.
His ability to move from explosive solos to delicate acoustic ballads is part of what makes the case for him as the GOAT.
Tone and Feel: Few guitarists can make six strings cry the way Clapton can.
Longevity: He’s been a major force for nearly 60 years.
Influence: Every blues-rock guitarist after him owes something to his style.
Risk vs. Comfort: Some argue Clapton played it safe after the ’70s. Where Hendrix burned bright and short, Clapton simmered.
Consistency vs. Innovation: Clapton stayed consistent, but maybe at the cost of shaking things up.
So, is Eric Clapton the greatest guitarist of all time?
If you measure greatness by influence, longevity, and tone — he’s got as strong a case as anyone. But calling him “the greatest” is tricky, because greatness in guitar isn’t just about skill. It’s about impact, spirit, and changing the game.
And while Hendrix might always be the revolutionary, Page the riff master, and SRV the blues warrior — Clapton stands as the bridge between them all.
Maybe that’s his true crown: not just being a guitarist, but being the guitarist who connected generations.
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